Higher Education

The San Joaquin Valley’s economic success depends on a skilled workforce prepared for knowledge-based jobs. However, the education gap of Valley residents is significant – U.S. Census shows that only 15 percent of adults (during 25 years) have a bachelor’s degree compared to 28 percent statewide. The need for meaningful collaboration between higher education institutions and industry has never been more critical to develop a skilled workforce.

Focus

The Higher Education Work Group focuses on aligning workforce development resources to the needs of target industries that are thriving in the San Joaquin Valley – agribusiness, manufacturing, supply chain management and logistics, health and medical care, and renewable energy. The work group recognizes the need for an educated workforce in the Valley and is working to create a college-going culture that prepares students for success in the workplace.

Supporting effectiveness of member institutions through appropriate collaborative initiatives including professional development and data collection analysis

2016 Report

Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) is the Partnership’s Higher Education Priority partner. Its focus is: Partner with Complete College America to increase college completion rates and reduce remediation time. Develop policy reform regarding foster care/transitional youth and college completion. Work on Central Valley GOAL 2025 with partners in all four sectors – higher education, K-12, nonprofit, business for profit. Work on education advocacy with Partnership Board. See Full 2016 Report